Brahmi
Bacopa monnieri · Sanskrit: Brahmi
A cooling herb traditionally associated with mental clarity, focus and calm.
Brahmi is Ayurveda’s classic medhya rasayana — a herb that nourishes medha, the intellect. The name Brahmi is linked to Brahman, universal consciousness, and in Kerala the creeping water hyssop Bacopa monnieri is the plant generally meant (in parts of North India the name is also used for Gotu kola, Centella asiatica).
It is commonly prepared as Brahmi ghrita (medicated ghee), as a juice of the fresh plant, or cooked into hair oils such as Brahmi taila. Several clinical trials of standardised Bacopa extracts suggest modest benefits for memory after some weeks of use.
Properties
- • Rasa: Bitter, Sweet
- • Virya: Cooling
- • Dosha: Balances Pitta & Vata
- • Guna: Light
- • Vipaka: Sweet
- • Part used: Whole plant
Traditional uses
- Traditionally used to support memory and concentration
- Used in preparations for a calm mind
- Applied in traditional hair oils
- May cause digestive upset in some people. Consult a practitioner before combining with other medication.
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Herb information is educational. It is not a prescription. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.